Questions
Form Q1 · Questions
8 questions asked at the desk.
Do I need to book a desk?
Yes for the reading room. Twelve desks a session, booked up to 60 days ahead. Walk-ins are seated if a desk is free at 09:30 or 13:30.
How many items can I order at once?
Six on one slip. Each pull round brings up to three of your items; the rest come with the next round.
Why is an item closed?
Records naming living people are closed for 30 years from the last entry. The catalogue shows the year an item opens.
Can I photograph documents?
Yes, with a self-photography permit (£5 for the day). No flash, no stands. Items marked fragile cannot be photographed or copied.
How long do copies take?
Five working days to collect in the reading room, ten if posted. Scans are sent as PDF files on a memory stick by post, or collected.
What if my item is held off-site?
Off-site items arrive at 10:00 on the next open day. Order by 16:30.
Can I give records to the office?
Yes, once the newest paper is 30 years old. Use the deposit check for the shelf length and fee, then write to the office.
Is anything on this site real?
No. This is a demonstration site with made-up records. Nothing is sent or reserved.